Arokodare's Fitness Concerns Ahead of AFCON Qualifiers

Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has raised concerns regarding his fitness ahead of Nigeria's opening fixtures in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. Recently recovering from a fever, Arokodare acknowledged that he is still not at full strength after his return to action with Ajax.

In a recent match against Excelsior, he came off the bench and scored two minutes after his introduction but felt fatigued shortly thereafter. He stated, “I needed this match to realise that I am not yet 100 per cent fit.

I still feel weak.” Arokodare hopes to use the international break to complete his recovery. The Super Eagles technical crew will monitor his fitness as Nigeria prepares for a double-header, hosting Madagascar on September 25 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, before traveling to Guinea-Bissau on September 29.

His fitness concerns are significant for coach Éric Chelle, especially with Victor Osimhen unavailable due to injury and Taiwo Awoniyi called up as his replacement.